NG2 cells are a novel distinct class of central nervous system (CNS) glial cells, characterized by the expression of the chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan NG2. They have been detected in a variety of human CNS diseases. As morphological, physiological and biomolecular studies of NG2 cells have been conducted, their roles have been gradually revealed. Research on cellular and molecular mechanisms in the pathophysiological state was built on the preliminary findings of their physiological functions; and in turn, this helps to clarify their physiological roles and leads to the identification of novel therapeutic targets. This review summarizes recent findings regarding the potential roles of NG2 cells in traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, glioma, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease and electroconvulsive therapy for depression.
NG2细胞是新发现的一类广泛存在于成熟和发育期中枢神经系统的胶质细胞群体。这些细胞表面表达NG2 硫酸软骨素蛋白多糖, 因而常被称作NG2细胞。随着NG2细胞形态学研究的深入, NG2胶质细胞的功能也越来越受到关注。NG2细胞在人类多种中枢神经系统疾病中扮演重要角色。本文结合最新的研究报道, 就其在一些常见的中枢神经系统疾病中的作用进行概括综述。